After beginning his career as a percussionist, he studied conducting with Pierre Dervaux and Pierre Boulez before serving as conductor at the Paris Opéra and the Opéra-Comique. In 1976, he founded the Orchestre National de Lille, which he led for more than four decades, transforming it into an internationally acclaimed orchestra through extensive touring and an award-winning recording legacy.
A frequent guest conductor, Casadesus has appeared with major orchestras and opera houses across Europe, Asia and North America, while remaining a passionate advocate for French music and contemporary composers. He has also devoted much of his career to music education, conducting the French Youth Orchestra and mentoring young musicians.
His distinguished career has been recognized with numerous honours, including the Victoires de la Musique Classique Honorary Award and promotion to Grand Officer of the Légion d’honneur. Today, he continues to conduct internationally while serving as Artistic Director of the Lille Piano(s) Festival, remaining one of the most respected figures in French classical music.
